It's the weekend of Thanksgiving here in Canada and instead of a kitchen tip,
I'd like to share a picture of one of the things I'm very grateful for in this season of my life.
Two weekends ago I traveled from the West coast of Canada to a cabin on a lake in Northern Michigan. I'd been invited to join all the female cousins on my mother's side for a weekend.
Growing up we were close, gathering often at Grandpa and Grandma's house, running around the heavily laden tables in the basement or out in the yard while the aunts and uncles visited.
As the oldest girl, I had not seen some of my younger cousins since I was married and left Ontario 44 years ago and this was a wonderful opportunity to get to know them as adults.
11 of the 14 girl cousins were able to come together with 3 of our 5 surviving aunts.
It felt like a small foretaste of what Heaven will be.
Joyful greetings (I would be more accurate if I said joyful shrieks) filled the air as we spilled out of cars. There were huge hugs and lots of laughter and not a few tears shed as we shared our lives
with each other, Throughout the weekend we gathered in small and large groups, chatting around the table, enjoying the stillness of the lake, walking through the autumn beauty,
all the while reveling in the bond of family.
Here we all are (I'm in the front row, second from the right)
When I look at this picture, I am so thankful!
- For Grandpa and Grandma who had the courage and faith to leave family and friends and the only life they'd ever known in Russia to undertake the long journey to Canada - where everything, including the language was new and strange to them.
- For their strong faith which they imparted to their children and grandchildren.
- For the concept of family that was exemplified to us. We were taught to forgive, to love and to support and encourage each other.
- For the bond of faith we share. It shapes us and carries us through the highs and lows of our lives.
- For the pledge we made to pray for each other and try to meet again in a couple of years.
I am immeasurably grateful to God for this rich heritage.
What are you particularly thankful this Thanksgiving Saturday?
Take the time to acknowledge it to God with a grateful heart.
Happy Thanksgiving!